*Childrens IRO – Professional Standards & Quality Assurance – #OR106046

Job Description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Independent Reviewing Officer to join the London Borough of Bexley’s Professional Standards & Quality Assurance / Safeguarding Service, based at the Civic Offices in Bexleyheath.

This is a pivotal role within children’s social care, responsible for chairing statutory Looked After Children reviews in accordance with the IRO Handbook Regulations (2010). You will hold a dedicated caseload as the named IRO, ensuring the voice of the child remains central to every review, and that care plans are robustly monitored and quality assured.

Key responsibilities include chairing LAC reviews and managing care planning processes; meeting children privately prior to and throughout their reviews; producing written records of decisions within statutory timescales; contributing to themed audits and quality assurance activity; providing specialist advice and consultation to social work teams and external partners in health and education; contributing to panels including resource, permanency, and 16-plus; and supporting the Service Manager in identifying trends and improving services for looked after children in Bexley.

Candidates must be qualified social workers registered with Social Work England, with substantial IRO or CP Chair experience and a thorough knowledge of LAC legislation, DfE regulations, and the IRO Handbook. Strong chairing, report-writing, and multi-agency liaison skills are essential.

This is a locum role paying £25.93–£35.26 per hour via Prism, commencing 6 July 2026. Contact us today to express your interest.

What’s on offer:

* Excellent, competitive pay rates – paid weekly
* Supportive management team with approachable, experienced leaders
* A desirable location with great transport links
* A stable, well-resourced, and encouraging working environment

Why join Semester.co.uk?

* Free ongoing CPD and training opportunities to enhance your skills
* Competitive rates of pay with prompt, reliable payments through our in-house payroll
* Enhanced DBS processing included
* Dedicated, friendly consultant offering tailored support
* Access to a wide range of opportunities in your chosen location

Ready to take the next step? Click ‘Apply’ now to express your interest in this role, or explore other exciting opportunities with Semester.co.uk.